Ariel Winter much happier living with her sister

‘Modern Family’ teen star Ariel Winter has opened up about her headline-grabbing legal fight with her mother, insisting she has “more of a family life” now her sister has been named her temporary guardian.

The actress was placed in her sibling Shanelle Gray’s care in October, amid claims the 15 year old was being physically and emotionally abused by their mom Chrystal Workman.

Workman has vehemently denied the allegations, but the youngster admits she feels much more stable after moving in with Gray and her husband.

She tells Teen Vogue magazine, “I’ve never had a curfew before. My life is definitely more normal – and that’ll help me grow up like I’m supposed to. Like, I always wanted to be a dancer, and now I’m taking dance classes. And I didn’t have many friends. It was all about work. Nowadays, my sister’s like, ‘You’re supposed to have friends. You’re supposed to go out on Friday and Saturday nights…’ Sunday we have family dinner. It’s just a different experience for me because I have more of a family life. I’m really happy.”

The change has also had a profound impact on Winter’s self-esteem. She explains, “I had body insecurities when I was younger. I still do. Every girl has insecurities – mine were heightened at the time because my mother wasn’t supportive. Now, my sister is always making sure to tell me that I look beautiful.”

She also reveals the move has brought the siblings closer, adding, “I didn’t know my sister much growing up, and I wasn’t really allowed to see her. I know now that my sister is the type of person I’d aspire to grow up to be like. It’s really interesting how close you can get with somebody in such a short period.”

Meanwhile, Winter, who has been homeschooled since elementary school, is taking time out to be a normal teen, revealing she recently enrolled in a proper high school: “I’m auditioning for the cheerleading team. I dance and do gymnastics, so I hope that helps.”

And she hopes to have a date for the school prom, adding, “I’ve always wanted to go to a school dance. I hope I get asked.”